1. What is a Time of Death Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the time since death based on current body temperature and the standard cooling rate.

Purpose: It helps forensic investigators and medical professionals estimate the postmortem interval (time since death).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( TOD \) — Time of Death (hours ago)
• \( T \) — Current time (hours)
• \( T_b \) — Current body temperature (°C)
• 37 — Normal body temperature (°C)
• 1.5 — Standard cooling rate (°C/hour)

Explanation: The formula calculates how long it would take for a body to cool from normal temperature (37°C) to the measured temperature at the standard cooling rate.

3. Importance of Time of Death Estimation

Details: Accurate time of death estimation is crucial for forensic investigations, helping establish timelines and potentially ruling out suspects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the current time in hours since death was discovered and the measured body temperature in Celsius. Body temperature must be ≤ 37°C.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides a rough estimate. Actual cooling rates vary based on environment, body size, clothing, and other factors.

Q2: Why 1.5°C/hour cooling rate?
A: This is the standard rate used in forensic medicine for the first few hours after death in moderate conditions.

Q3: When does this formula not apply?
A: In extreme temperatures, with very large/small bodies, or when death occurred more than 12-18 hours ago.

Q4: What if the body temperature is higher than 37°C?
A: This suggests death occurred very recently or the person had a fever. The formula may not be accurate in these cases.

Q5: How can I improve accuracy?
A: Use rectal temperature, consider ambient temperature, and account for body weight and clothing if possible.